Authorities Identify Pedestrian Tragically Killed in April Collision in Oregon

Portland, Oregon | April 21, 2025

25-Year-Old Pedestrian Struck and Killed on North Going Street

Authorities have identified the pedestrian killed in a vehicle crash on April 21, 2025, in North Portland as 25-year-old Anthony Nez Jr. According to the Portland Police Bureau (PPB), officers from the North Precinct responded at 10:19 p.m. to reports of a collision involving a pedestrian in the 3100 block of North Going Street.

Upon arrival, officers found Nez had died at the scene. Police say the driver involved remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the investigation. The PPB's Major Crash Team responded and closed nearby streets—including North Basin Avenue, North Lagoon Avenue, and North Channel Avenue—during the investigation.

The circumstances leading up to the crash have not yet been publicly disclosed. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Traffic Investigations Unit at crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov (opens in a new tab), referencing case number 25-103320.

Legal Considerations in Oregon Pedestrian Fatalities

In Oregon, pedestrian fatalities, such as the death of Anthony Nez Jr., often raise serious legal questions about negligence, right-of-way, and potential wrongful death claims. Even when a driver remains at the scene and cooperates, liability can still arise if the driver was distracted, speeding, failed to yield, or otherwise acted negligently under Oregon traffic laws.

Oregon law provides strong protections for pedestrians, especially in areas where pedestrians have the right-of-way. If the investigation determines that the driver failed to exercise reasonable care, the family of Mr. Nez may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such claims can provide compensation for lost income, funeral expenses, and the emotional pain suffered by surviving relatives.

Additionally, cases like these may fall under the broader category of personal injury law, even though the injury resulted in death. These laws are designed not only to hold at-fault parties accountable but also to foster public safety by encouraging responsible driving behavior.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact

The PPB has not indicated whether any citations or charges have been filed in connection with the crash, noting only that the investigation remains ongoing. As is typical in serious or fatal incidents, the Major Crash Team is leading a comprehensive review of the circumstances surrounding the collision.

The death of Anthony Nez Jr. highlights the persistent dangers faced by pedestrians in Portland and throughout Oregon. North Going Street, located in an industrial corridor of the city, may lack the pedestrian infrastructure—such as crosswalks or proper lighting—that could help prevent such incidents.

Support for Victims and Families

For families facing the sudden and devastating loss of a loved one in a pedestrian accident, the path forward can be overwhelming. Understanding your legal rights is an essential step, and it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney who can assess the facts of the case and offer guidance on potential claims for pedestrian accident injuries or wrongful death.

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a pedestrian accident, Pacific Injury Law Firm offers free consultations to help you understand your legal options. Contact us at https://pacificinjurylawfirm.com/contact or call 971-277-3811 to speak with a knowledgeable member of our team.